Connect with us

Home Integrator

A VISION BUILT ON DETAIL

Published

on

A professional headshot of Mr. Ravi Menon of Sobha Group, a leader in the luxury furniture and real estate division, smiling in a formal setting.

Exclusive Interview with Mr. Ravi Menon, Chairman of Sobha Group and Mr. Anuj Jain, Chief Executive Officer, Sobha Furniture.

Ravi, as the chairman of Sobha Group and the titan in the real estate market, can you share your journey and experience with us and how has it been for you so far?

    For me, the journey has been both deeply personal and professionally gratifying. Although I relocated to Dubai only three years back, Sobha Group’s foundation in the UAE was laid long before my move. Since then, particularly post-2020, it has been nothing short of exceptional. Year on year, our business has seen sustained growth and our sales performance is tracking ahead well, cementing our vision of becoming a global benchmark for world-class real estate.

    We also recently expanded into Umm Al Quwain with two new projects and are preparing to enter the Abu Dhabi market as part of our long-term strategy to build a diversified UAE-wide portfolio valued at approximately USD8 billion. Overall, it has been an extraordinary journey, but for Sobha Group, this is just the beginning.

    How are you competing with other brands in the market, especially when it comes to UAE? And what makes you one step ahead?

    At Sobha, we stand out in the market because of our ‘Backward Integration’ model. Our model is fundamentally distinct because we are one of the very few developers globally who have a fully backward integrated model, which is extremely rare in our industry, where most developers limit themselves to land acquisition, sales, and outsourced execution. This means that from concept to design to final delivery, every stage is managed in-house, ensuring that all projects are integrated with the highest standards of quality that Sobha Group is known for. This also helps us reduce dependencies on external suppliers, providing us with stronger control over quality, delivery timelines, and execution.

    What also makes us unique is the culture we have built over the decades. The Group is driven by my father’s legacy and passion for design, passion for construction, and passion for continuous improvement. The moment we complete a project; we are already thinking about how we can raise the benchmark for the next one. That mindset keeps the entire organization’s future focused.

    Now with Sobha Furniture, this entire project marks a new milestone. What does this launch mean for the brand? And for Sobha Realty as a whole?

    Sobha Furniture is not the beginning of something new; it is the return to where it all began. In fact, 50 years ago, when my father started his entrepreneurial journey, it started with interior decoration. For him, he has always been extremely passionate about the art of details and accuracy, within a millimetre precision.

    From the outset, our philosophy has always been simple – to invest in the best of machinery, technology, and talent. This mix has allowed us to maintain a standard of quality that is non-negotiable in our business. We understand that a home is a very personal space and when we decided to launch Sobha Furniture, we were very mindful of the pinch points that customers face and wanted to create a business that sets a new benchmark for large-scale, design-led furniture manufacturing — Made in the UAE, for the world.

    There has long been a gap between design ambition and furniture manufacturing capability in this region, and Sobha Furniture shall be bridging that gap. What this launch ultimately signifies is the formalization of something that has always been intrinsic to Sobha Group: design excellence, engineering precision, and a culture of co-creation. With ‘The Gallery’ and our expanded manufacturing capabilities, we now have a space where clients can experience our craft firsthand, collaborate with our teams, and shape pieces that reflect their exact vision.

    Our business approach follows the same philosophy to build a unique fully integrated ecosystem that is capable of handling everything under one roof. And furniture is also part of that. When I say furniture, the cabinets, the kitchen cabinets, the wardrobes, the bathrooms, everything. So, every apartment that we have delivered in this market reflects these capabilities.

    Mr. Anuj Jain, Chief Executive Officer, Sobha Furniture Insights:

    A professional portrait of Mr. Anuj Jain of Sobha Furniture, respectively,

    Furniture has always been part of the game, and we’re just giving light to the vision of what Mr. PNC Menon has. So right now, this is a B2B co-creating space. We’ll soon be catering to B2C audience as well.

    We will have a lot of offerings for the end customer as well as the B2B partners and developers and designers in the upcoming coming years.

    So Mr. Anuj, how does The Gallery embody the direction and the future of Sobha Furniture as a brand, especially when it comes to showcasing the replica projects here that is showcased, the walk-in closets and materials and finishings?

    The Gallery is a preview into what our vision for Sobha Furniture is. We did not want to create a traditional setup, which is why we have designed this as a working space for architects, interior designers, developers, and project partners rather than just a retail showroom. Every space has been thoughtfully curated to embody our outlook to connect, collaborate, and co-create with the community and showcases our passion for being partners from start to finish.

    Designed as fully functional spaces, each of our mock-up areas serve a specific purpose and gives customers a deep insight into our design concepts, materials, finishes, and overall approach to furniture manufacturing. This is the first step to fulfilling our mission to set the foundation of a new standard and deliver projects that will showcase the precision and exceptional quality that Sobha is known for.

    Mr. Ravi, looking towards the future, let’s say in the next 20 years ahead, what plans are looking forward to?

    The industry we work in is very dynamic; it pushes us every day to ensure that our long-term direction is clear. Sobha Furniture is a brand rooted in legacy – one that we envision to be Made in the UAE for the world. Setting up our foundation here has given us unparalleled access to infrastructure, connectivity, talent, and an overall ecosystem that has set us up for success on the scale we are aiming for.

    One of our immediate priorities is the launch of our flagship factory in Dubai Industrial City. It is an enormous, 53,000 sqm facility that will house the best-in-class full automated machinery and will bring an integrated approach to furniture manufacturing with everything from foaming to cutting, stitching, framing and upholstery.

    As part of our strategic expansion, we are looking to establish our presence in key international markets. In fact, we have already shortlisted three potential properties in the US market and are also exploring the potential of entering the Australian market. 20 years is a long time, but we are steadfast in our commitment of building on a scale with exceptional quality that has not been seen in the region before.

    Continue Reading
    Click to comment

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Home Integrator

    R.Evolution Scales EYWA Into A Global Longevity-led Real Estate Brand

    Published

    on

    R.Evolution, the European real estate developer, is expanding EYWA from a collection of flagship developments into a global longevity-led regenerative real estate brand. 

    Following the launch of EYWA Tree of Life and EYWA Way of Water in Dubai, and of EYWA Bac de Roda and EYWA 22 Palms in Barcelona, the company is establishing EYWA as a platform that can be applied across residential, commercial, and future hospitality developments in multiple international markets.

    “The global luxury real estate market is evolving. Buyers are no longer interested only in architecture, square footage, and location. They are increasingly looking for homes that support healthier, longer, and more fulfilling lives,” says Igor Karpikov, Chief Commercial Officer at R.Evolution, “Wellness real estate is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the global wellness economy and is forecast to reach $1.8 trillion by 2030. Our Dubai developments demonstrate how the EYWA philosophy translates into exceptional real estate, aligning with the emirate’s focus on quality of life, sustainability, and wellbeing.”

    Homes as Wellbeing Ecosystems. Research suggests that genetics account for around 50% of the factors influencing lifespan. The remaining half is shaped by environment and lifestyle. Since people spend around 90% of their time indoors, the buildings they live in play a significant role in supporting health and wellbeing.

    Inspired by the vision of R.Evolution founder Alex Zagrebelny, EYWA – short for Energy, Youthfulness, Wellbeing, and Ancient Knowledge – introduces the concept of regenerative real estate – an approach that views buildings as living ecosystems. It combines thoughtful spatial design, modern technology, natural elements, and ancestral wisdom to support everyday living and health.

    Building a Broader Longevity Ecosystem. As EYWA continues to expand, R.Evolution is developing strategic collaborations with leading players across the wellness and longevity ecosystem. These collaborations span health and longevity programming, nature-focused initiatives, educational programs, next-generation sustainable technologies, and premium lifestyle offerings.

    Together, these partnerships extend the EYWA experience beyond the physical building, creating a broader ecosystem centered on wellbeing that supports residents in their daily lives.

    The Next Chapter. EYWA’s expansion into hospitality in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations marks the next phase of the brand’s evolution, with additional initiatives in the longevity and wellbeing space also in progress.

    R.Evolution will share details of new projects, partnerships, and locations as they reach the appropriate stage of development.

    Continue Reading

    Home Feature

    How the Blend of Nature and Science is Reinventing Neem for GCC Skincare

    Published

    on

    The GCC’s combination of extreme heat, humidity, frequent transitions between outdoor heat and air-conditioned environments, dust exposure, and prolonged sunscreen and makeup use creates a unique set of skincare challenges. With acne and pimple concerns already affecting more than 65% of the GCC population, these seasonal conditions have renewed interest in one time-tested ingredient: Neem.

    The Science Behind a Timeless Ingredient

    For generations, Himalaya Wellness Company has harnessed the power of Neem through its expertise in herbal science, developing skincare solutions trusted by consumers across generations. Today, the brand continues to build on that legacy by combining its herbal heritage with modern formulation science to create gentle and effective skincare tailored to the evolving needs of consumers across the Middle East.

    The enduring appeal of Neem lies in its proven skincare benefits. Widely recognised for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, Neem is supported by a growing body of scientific research, with dermatologists continuing to highlight its effectiveness in skincare. Its popularity also extends beyond the laboratory, with Neem continuing to be embraced by beauty enthusiasts, influencers, and celebrities as a trusted ingredient for maintaining balanced, healthy-looking, pimple-free skin.

    Inside Himalaya’s Global Research Centre

    That approach was recently on display at Himalaya’s exclusive ‘Powered by Nature, Perfected by Science’ Experience, hosted at its Global Research Centre in Dubai Science Park, which measures 55,000 square feet. The gathering invited several of GCC’s digital beauty creators and storytellers into the brand’s formulation labs, where they explored the science behind Neem skincare through molecular experiments and learned about the research and testing behind Himalaya’s formulations. The facility brings together more than 50 scientists, formulators, and researchers from 12 nationalities who study regional skin needs and develop product innovation solutions suited to Middle Eastern climates.

    “The Middle East continues to be a strategically important market, with consumers seeking solutions that are tailored to their specific skin needs and supported by scientific research,” said Sajeev Kaura, Business Director (CPD), Himalaya METAP region. “Through our work in the UAE and the GCC region, we continue to invest in understanding regional requirements and developing skincare solutions that bring together herbal expertise, innovation, and efficacy.”

    Consumers across the GCC are increasingly seeking natural skincare products that combine herbal ingredients with proven scientific performance. This reflects a shift toward formulations that are effective, gentle on the skin, and suitable for everyday use in hot, humid climates. Neem, one of Himalaya’s most recognised ingredients, sits at the centre of that shift. Through extensive research and advanced authentication methods, the brand continues to refine the ingredient’s potential and ensure consistency and quality across every formulation.

    “Developing effective skincare solutions requires a deep understanding of the specific concerns consumers face in different environments, ingredients and formulation science,” added Abhishek Ashat, Marketing Head (CPD), Himalaya MENA region. “Our research approach combines herbal expertise with advanced scientific methods to create formulations that deliver targeted benefits while supporting the skin’s natural balance. Initiatives like the ‘Powered by Nature, Perfected by Science’ Experience allow us to share the science behind our formulations and bring consumers closer to the research that shapes our products.”

    A Complete ‘Pimple Cycle’ Regime Tailored to GCC Skin Needs

    That research has been translated into Himalaya’s Purifying Neem range, a complete routine designed to address blemish concerns in high humidity climates.

    Himalaya Purifying Neem Face Wash is trusted by millions of girls worldwide as the best solution for pimples and makes Himalaya the No.1 Face Wash brand in GCC. It is a soap-free, pH-friendly cleanser designed to help clear pimples and prevent pimple marks, and it remains one of Himalaya’s most recognised products across the GCC. The Purifying Neem Scrub and the clay infused Purifying Neem Mask support regular routines by helping remove environmental impurities and maintain clearer looking skin. For more targeted care, the Purifying Neem Serum was recently developed by Himalaya’s Dubai Science Park R&D team. It is a perfect blend of natural ingredients and scientific actives, combining 10% pure Neem extract with 2% Natural Salicylic Acid and CICA. Himalaya Purifying Neem Serum is suitable for day and night use, and is clinically proven to reduce pimples and blemishes within one week, while helping maintain healthier looking, more radiant skin.

    A Commitment Beyond Skincare

    Beyond clinical performance, the modern GCC beauty consumer is also asking where ingredients come from. Himalaya addresses that directly through its commitment to regenerative sourcing. Over 98% of the herbal ingredients used across its product ranges are harvested from renewable plant parts, with plans to reach 100% by 2030 to support biodiversity preservation. Through initiatives like Project Sampoorna, the brand also works directly with local farming communities, providing structured capacity building and agricultural support. This approach helps preserve organic soil health while tying every product back to a broader commitment to responsible sourcing. To ensure quality, safety and consistency, they apply stringent authentication methods, including DNA barcode testing, to verify herbal identity at the molecular level.

    As beauty consumers across the region become more informed about ingredients, climate impact, and skin health, the future of skincare is shifting toward solutions designed around real environments and real needs. For the Middle East climate, that increasingly starts with neem.

    Continue Reading

    Home Integrator

    Rasasi Expands Its Global Hawas Collection with the Launch of Hawas Gold Digger

    Published

    on

    UAE-born fragrance house Rasasi has unveiled Hawas Gold Digger, the latest addition to its globally recognised Hawas collection, at an exclusive launch event held at La Perle Dubai on 14 August 2026.

    Hawas Gold Digger builds on the distinctive energy of the Hawas collection while introducing a warmer, richer and more expressive olfactive direction. The amber woody aromatic composition opens with pear, lavender, bergamot and mint, develops into a heart of cinnamon and sage, and settles into a base of vanilla, amber, patchouli and cedarwood.

    Created with a new generation of fragrance consumers in mind, Hawas Gold Digger draws inspiration from ambition, desire and personal success — celebrating individuals who define achievement on their own terms. Its bold character offers a new interpretation of the Hawas identity while retaining the confidence and contemporary appeal associated with the franchise.

    “The GCC has become one of the world’s most dynamic fragrance markets, with consumers becoming increasingly sophisticated and willing to invest in premium fragrances that offer quality, individuality and character. With Hawas Gold Digger, we wanted to offer a distinctive interpretation of modern luxury, bringing together the artistry of fine perfumery with a contemporary, design-led approach. It is a fragrance created for those who value authenticity and self-expression,” said Ismail Anis, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Rasasi.

    The launch represents a new chapter for the Hawas franchise, one of Rasasi’s most recognised fragrance lines internationally. Set against the distinctive backdrop of La Perle Dubai, the unveiling brought together international fragrance creators, influencers, media personalities and cultural voices for an evening centred around contemporary fragrance, entertainment and self-expression.

    Among the guests was Indian actor and filmmaker Riteish Deshmukh, whose presence brought together the worlds of fragrance and entertainment. A prominent figure in India’s entertainment landscape, Deshmukh joined an international guest list reflecting the diverse audiences Rasasi continues to engage across markets.

    With Dubai at its centre, the event also reflected Rasasi’s evolution from a homegrown fragrance house established in 1979 into an international fragrance business. Founded in Dubai, Rasasi remains deeply connected to the UAE and the region’s rich fragrance culture while continuing to create contemporary scents for consumers across generations and international markets. Rasasi’s 1979 Dubai founding is also reflected in the company’s current official history.

    Hawas Gold Digger embodies that evolution, building on the international recognition of Hawas while introducing a warmer, richer, and more expressive character for a new generation of fragrance consumers.

    “Launching Hawas Gold Digger in Dubai alongside international voices reflects both where we come from and where we are going. Hawas has developed a strong connection with fragrance consumers around the world, and Gold Digger allows us to build on that momentum while introducing a new expression of the Hawas identity to a generation that increasingly uses fragrance as an extension of personality and individual style,” added Ismail Anis.

    Hawas Gold Digger is now available through Rasasi’s official sales channels and selected fragrance retailers across international markets.

    Continue Reading

    Trending

    Copyright © 2023 | The Integrator